Despite what the name suggests, lumbar degenerative disc disease is neither a true disease nor does it progressively worsen over time. Rather, lumbar degenerative disc disease refers to a condition in which age-related wear and tear on a spinal disc causes low back pain.
Symptoms greatly vary, depending on how quickly or thoroughly the disc degenerates and how it affects the surrounding spinal structures. Some typical symptoms include:
Pain can vary from nagging to severe, and may last from a few days to a few months. As the spine gradually stabilizes, it’s not uncommon for the pain and other symptoms to alleviate.
Risk factors for degenerative disc disease include:
Prolonged bed rest is not recommended for degenerative disc disease. Remaining inactive for long periods can weaken the muscles and stiffen the spine, leading to increased pain. Suggested treatment methods include:
Surgical treatment is an option in cases of severe, debilitating degenerative disc disease. Call 330.835.5533 and schedule an appointment with a Summa spine specialist to discuss the right treatment for you.